Delivery guide · Updated January 1970
Tesla delivery inspection checklist (printable, 2026)
Here's the checklist I wish I'd printed the morning I picked up my Tesla. I did a rushed walkaround in a dim delivery bay, missed a paint chip on the rear quarter, and spent the next two weeks bouncing emails with Service to get it covered. This is what I actually use now when I help friends inspect a new car.
Print this page, or open it on your phone at the delivery center. Anything you find, log it in the Tesla app before you tap Accept, and take dated photos.
TL;DR
- Inspect in daylight if possible. Bring a flashlight either way.
- Work outside → inside → software → paperwork. Don't skip around.
- Log every issue in the Tesla app before you accept the car.
- Get Due Bill promises in writing, not verbal.
- The referral benefit is a pre-order step, not a delivery step — it's already on your account by now.
1. Exterior
Progress saves on this device.
1. Exterior
0/92. Interior
Progress saves on this device.
2. Interior
0/73. Software and account
Progress saves on this device.
3. Software and account
0/64. Paperwork and handoff
Progress saves on this device.
4. Paperwork and handoff
0/5FAQ
How long should I plan for a Tesla delivery inspection?
Give yourself at least 30 to 45 minutes at the delivery location. I've done a rushed 10 minute walkaround and regretted it. Panel gaps and paint issues in a dim garage are much harder to spot than in daylight.
Can I still refuse delivery if I find a defect?
Tesla's delivery policy has shifted over the years. In my experience they'd rather fix an issue at the Service Center than swap VINs, but you can ask. Get any promised fix written into the Due Bill before you sign.
Do I have to accept delivery the same day I inspect?
Usually yes, once your window opens. If something is truly wrong (major paint damage, missing options, wrong VIN), tell the advisor immediately and don't accept the car in the app until you've agreed on next steps.
Does using a referral link change anything at delivery?
No. The referral benefit is tied to the order in your Tesla account and is applied before delivery. The inspection itself is the same either way.
Before you tap Order
Whether you're still configuring or picking up next week, run through this list one more time before placing (or finalizing) the order:
- • Trim, wheels, paint, and interior are locked in — these are hard to change later.
- • Financing lined up (Tesla quote vs credit union) and any trade-in valued.
- • State and utility incentives checked for your ZIP.
- • Home charging plan in motion (NEMA 14-50 or Wall Connector).
- • Open the referral link on the device you'll order from, right before tapping Order.
Related reading: master pre-order checklist, delivery day overview, what to check before ordering, and the Model Y overview.